The Writer's Uniform

 

Okay, I admit it. When I’m at home writing, pjs are my outfit of choice. Usually teamed with a messy ponytail and no makeup.

That’s the thing with writing; I gotta be comfy. The problem? It leaves me utterly ill-equipped for the times I have to leave the house. Casual attire, I’m okay with but when you bring writing events into the mix, I confess I’m lost.

Networking usually results in me worrying about it before attending over-dressed. I just can’t get the hang of fashion. My first writing event – networking with TV people – I had my hair loose (an anomaly for me,) there was makeup on my face, and I wore a dress with heels. Not tall heels, but still heels. The people there were in jeans. Dang it! I’d got it wrong. This happens more than I’d like it to. Over-dressed or under-dressed; it’s confusing to a girl whose wardrobe is basically made up of pyjamas.

Somewhere along the way, I think I forgot to learn the skills of personal style. Unless lounge-wear is considered style, in which case, I’m nailing it.

On the other hand, if it’s not, then I may need some help. Here are the tips I’ve come up with so far:

·       Plan ahead: I find it kind of helpful to think of what I’m wearing ahead of time, so there’s no last-minute plan. It’s not a flawless plan, because, as I said, I am sometimes overdressed, but at least I’m never under-dressed.

·       Dress for yourself: There’s no point being uncomfortable in an outfit you don’t feel nice in. If you’re out of place in your clothes, it’s not exactly going to bolster you for talking to strangers.

·       Simple is better: This one is personal for me. I’m not adventurous with fashion, but if you are, the last thing I want to do, is tell you to go against yourself. Like I said, dress for yourself. But personally, for me, I find it better to keep it simple. I just don’t have the personal style to pull of something adventurous.

That’s all I’ve got so far, but maybe the more I network the better I’ll get.